Apr 13, 2007

Jay-Z and Beyonce to Start New LabelRumors have been circulating about Jay-Z and Beyonce getting married but the duo may have another partnership in the works. According to mediatakeout.com, Jay-Z will soon announce that he’s leaving his position at Def Jam to create a new label with Beyonce.

According to mediatakeout.com, a key person involved with the new label has said that it will launch early next year.

“It’s a done deal. Jay-Z already has Beyonce and Matthew Knowles on board,” said the source. “She’ll be finishing up her contract [with Sony], and I expect that she’ll sign on to the new label shortly afterwards.”Beyonce is scheduled to complete her final album under a deal with Sony this fall. The final of her three albums of the deal (B'Day and B'Day Deluxe) will be a live album.

It’s not clear which major label will house the new label but the insider says it’s not going to be Island Def Jam. “Jay-Z brought the idea to Def Jam first but they thought he was asking for too much money,” said the source. “Now they’re shopping the deal around to the other majors and to Apple [the creator of iTunes] who is very interested in doing business.

The insider also says the prospect of Jay-Z and Beyonce starting their own label has the people over at Def Jam terrified however, this story is still developing. Houston Studio Owner Claims J Prince Ordered Assault, Files Lawsuit Over Bun B SingleHouston music executive/Ronnie Bookman filed a lawsuit today (April 12]), claiming that Rap-A-Lot Records' CEO James "J. Prince" Prince orchestrated an attack against Bookman at Prince's Fresh Recreation Center Gym in Houston.

Bookman is the owner of Houston recording studio, Studio 7303. He also recently established a new music label entitled 7303 Records.

According to the lawsuit, Bookman claims the beating took place after he was lured to Prince’s gym for a business meeting, to discuss the clearance of one of Prince’s artists to appear on an album by one Bookman’s first artists.

Prince allegedly allowed rapper Bun B to record a single titled "Wrong for Dat" with 7303 artist Javon "JV" Daniels and agreed to sign over all the rights to the song.

In exchange, Bun B recorded the gold selling Trill album at 7303 for a substantially discounted cost.According to the lawsuit, Prince and Rap-A-Lot Records reneged on their agreement to release the Bun B. single, after Warner Brothers approached Bookman with a an offer for a label deal.

"What he did was lure me over there to the gym like he was going to sign off on the clearance forms,” Bookman said in a statement. “So I went over there and didn't think nothing of it.”

Bookman said what he thought was going to be an ordinary business meeting soon took an ugly turn."We went into the weight room," Bookman said. "After we discussed some bogus contracts that he had sent over to my studio, which were a clumsy attempt to try to steal my studio, he told me that I had been talking about Rap-A-Lot Records, and we went back and forth with that. He put somebody on the phone and we chopped that up..then I asked him: 'now what?' He said 'uh huh, OK, OK ... now let's see how you gonna like this!' And then he opened a door and those seven guys came rushing out and did their number on me."

As a result of the beating, Bookman suffered a broken nose and head injuries including two blacks eyes, one of which will require surgery

"This was a vicious act of intimidation, plain and simple," said John B. Thomas, lead counsel for Bookman. "We believe Mr. Prince's plan was to eliminatecompetition in the Houston Rap and Hip-Hop music business through the use of threats, intimidation and violence." Bookman is suing for Prince for breach of contract, battery, unfair competition, duress, conspiracy and unjust enrichment. He is also seeking a court order barring Prince and any business associate from coming 500 feet within his home or business.

“I'm not going to let someone come in and destroy my business through threats or intimidation,” Bookman said. “I want to serve notice that it's time to stop this right now.”

50 Cent Concert Turns Violent, Man Sues Promoter & Security GuardsA Canadian concertgoer has filed lawsuit against a promoter and several security guards he claims are responsible for injuries he received after attending a 50 Cent show.

According to the Vancouver Sun, Clayton Baker of Abbotsford has filed suit against the Pacific National Exhibition and four security guards for negligence after being assaulted during a 50 Cent concert held at the Pacific Coliseum in late 2005. Baker is also suing the concert promoter, who he says is responsible for creating an atmosphere of hostility at the show because violent imagery used in promotional material attracted a violent audience to the December 3rd concert.

50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, has long been the subject of controversy in Canada with many in the country accusing the rapper of promoting gun violence. The issue has raised such an alarm that lawmakers have considered banning the rapper from touring the country.

Baker's suit, which was filed in B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver, claims he was mistaken for another concertgoer and grabbed by four security guards, who threw him to the ground, pinning his arms and legs and intentionally stepped on his right hand before taking him out of the Pacific Coliseum by force.

Baker claims he suffered bruising on his face, a fracture to his hand, pain in his shoulders, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life and been unable to work as a laborer since the attack. He is seeking unspecified damages for the injuries he received. So far the defendants named in the case have yet to respond to the allegations made in Baker's suit.

Rick Ross Prepares For His Sophomore ReleaseSome would decide to relax after a year of phenomenal success, enjoying the fruits of their labor, but multi-talented rapper Rick Ross is just getting started. With several projects in tow, 2007 will be the year for The Boss, as he prepares for his highly anticipated, sophomore release, "Trilla," via Def Jam/Slip N' Slide while managed by E-Class Management...

What may have seemed to many, like an overnight success, his journey has been 12 years in the making; his hard work and dedication has surely paid off. Mr. Ross equates his success to putting God first, never giving up and maintaining his grind. For years, he distributed his own mixtapes, in addition to serving as a ghostwriter for several well-known recording artists while staying true to the game.

"It's crazy, when I finally broke through, cats were like, "Is that?.... naaaww.. it can't be" But yeah it was me, the same dude they have been hearing and hearing about for years," says the superstar.

The truth of the matter is, Rick Ross has arrived and he is here to stay.

Made famous for his smash hit Hustlin', while just this past year his debut, "Port of Miami," which is now certified platinum, held down the Bill Board Charts for several weeks at # 1. Superseding all expectations, the mastertone for the hit "Hustlin" broke all music industry records by reaching platinum status a week prior to his album release in August 2006.

Rick Ross is engaged in preparing for his sophomore effort "Trilla," which will add the the fire and further propel "The Movement.""Miami is on fire and we are not going to stop until we reach the top, we have put in endless hours in the studio, promoting and honing our craft. 2007 is the year of the "Trilla," says Poe Boy Entertainment, Vice President, Alex "Gucci Pucci" Bethune.

"Trilla," expected to be a classic, is a conglomeration of music's finest and will undoubtedly set the stage for Hip-Hop and will raise the bar several notches.

Please also stay tuned for M.I.Yayo a documentary about, the most notorious drug king-pins in Miami, in which Rick Ross makes his executive producing debut. This movie will also be released the same day as "Trilla."

DJ Khaled "Takin' Over" June 12th

DJ Khaled is set to release his sophomore album, We The Best, on June 12th, 2007 through Terror Squad/KOCH Records. The new collection features a veritable who’s-who of Hip Hop including T.I., Game, Jadakiss, Paul Wall, Trick Daddy, Ja Rule, Ludacris, Rick Ross, Jeezy, Lil’ Wayne, Akon, Baby, Styles P, Cassidy, Juelz Santana, Young Dro and many more to be announced.

The new album will include the 1st single, “We Takin’ Over,” which features T.I., Akon, Fat Joe, Rick Ross, Lil’ Wayne and Baby. “We Takin’ Over” was was the #1 most added song at hip-hop radio last week with 52 adds. The single is already over 1,400 spins and growing by-the-minute. The track will be available for download on iTunes on March 27th.

A video for “We Takin’ Over” was recently shot in Miami and directed by Miami native/award-winning Director Gil Green, whose credits include Three 6 Mafia, Akon, Rick Ross, Lil’ Scrappy and many more.

DJ Khaled, who currently has the most popular radio show in Miami (WEDR/99 Jamz), released his debut, Listennn…The Album, last year and it sold over 200,000 units and debuted at #1 on the Billboard Independent Chart. The album spawned numerous singles/videos including “Holla At Me,” “Grammy Family” and “Born N’ Raised.”

DJ Khaled is very excited about his new album We The Best, and exclaims, “We taking over!!! Lisssssttteeennnnn!! We the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm about UNITY!!”

Mercury Records Being Relaunched Under Island Def JamThe Mercury Records label will be relaunched as a new division under the Island Def Jam Music Group.

The relaunched label will be helmed by David Massey, who formerly served as president of Daylight Records and Executive Vice President of A&R at Sony Music Label Group U.S.

"Even more than David's proven leadership and success as an executive in our business is the track record of trust and inspiration he has won from the artists he's worked with over the years," said IDJ CEO Antonio "L.A." Reid. "This all important quality makes him the perfect choice to pilot Mercury through its latest incarnation as a new cornerstone in the IDJ family. We welcome him to the senior management team."

IDJ hopes Massey can resuscitate the Mercury Records, which was originally founded in 1945.

"To work alongside L.A. Reid, Shawn Carter, Steve Bartels, Jermaine Dupri and the entire Island Def Jam staff, as we breathe new life into Mercury Records, is a chance to put all our creativity and initiative to the test," Massey said. "I look forward to the challenge."

Mercury is mostly a catalog label, but has released albums by groups like Fall Out Boy, Juelz Santana and Kanye West under the Mercury UK in Europe.

Super producer Quincy Jones also broke ground at Mercury, when he became the first African-American told hold a Vice President position.

The Jackson Family Get "American Idol" Style TV Show

CBS is teaming up with members of the Jackson family to launch the new reality show, "Pop Dynasty," an American Idol-style competition designed to form a new super group.

Jermaine Jackson has been named a principal on the project and will also serve as a judge alongside LaToya and Tito.

Jamie Foxx, Marcus King and Greg Shelton, as well as Triage Entertainment's Stu Schreiberg have also been listed as collaborators according to Variety. Schreiberg has extensive experience producing live and music-based specials including both Foxx's NBC music special "Unpredictable" and Comedy Central special "Laffapalooza."

Although scores of performance based competitions have sprung up after the success of "American Idol," CBS is hoping to capitalize off of the presence of three members of the iconic Jackson clan and LaToya's renewed popularity from her recent stint on "Armed and Famous."

As for now, neither Michael nor Janet Jackson are involved with "Pop Dynasty."

Mario Sets July 31st As Release Date For New Album "GO!"Multi-platinum R&B sensation MARIO returns with his highly anticipated third album, GO (J Records), in stores July 31. The first single, "How Do I Breathe," produced by Stargate, is a lovesick anthem full of the signature crooning that has earned Mario the reputation as one of the best voices of a generation. The emotional ballad will impact radio on April 30.

The follow-up to 2004's double platinum Turning Point, Go features Mario's silky smooth vocals and showcases a more mature Mario, talking in equal breaths about romance, love, and even sex. While past hits have seen a young Mario skirting the issue in his chart toppers, the 20-year-old Mario tackles it head on in the sexually charged banger "Go" and the sensual "Lay In My Bed." Also on his mind are relationship challenges, asking why his girl can't let their relationship be what it is on "No Definition" and confessing to a roving eye on "Kryptonite." Mario is truly holding nothing back.

"Over the years in this industry, I feel like I've grown to a point where I'm comfortable in my own skin, and this album truly reflects that," says Mario. "Go is sexier and more passionate, but there's another, more personal side to the record as well."

In fact, Mario's new-found comfort extends to personal topics he's never before touched on, including his difficult upbringing. On "Do Right," Mario sings of his early years growing up with a drug-addicted mother and fighting for a better life. The confessional ballad was in part inspired by his star turn in the recent film "Freedom Writers" as Andre, a teen struggling to rise about life with an incarcerated brother and an addict mother. The DVD will be out April 17 and with Mario appearing on The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson on April 25 to promote the DVD.

While his character Andre finds an outlet for his frustrations in writing, music is what inspired Mario, who became a star at the young age of 15 when he released his debut album, 2002's Mario, which spawned the Top 10 single "Just a Friend 2002." His follow up album, 2004's Turning Point, featured the megahit "Let Me Love You," which skyrocketed to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for five weeks, propelling Turning Point to double-platinum status and earning Mario two Grammy nominations and two Billboard Award wins.

(L note: hmmmm july 31st, Thats a good date.)

Lil' Wayne To Appear On New Song By Pop Superstar Enrique IglesiasLil' Wayne is slated to appear on a new song entitled "Push" by Pop artist Enrique Iglesias. The song is from Iglesias' new album, "Insomniac", his first album in four years which is expected to be in stores this June. The album's first single is called "Do You Know (The Ping Pong Song)" and was written by in demand songwriter Sean Garrett.

Lil' Wayne is expected to release his new album, "Tha Carter 3", this summer. This will be preceded by the release of his highly anticipated mixtape "Drought 3" hosted by Birdman and DJ Khaled. The mixtape is expected to hit the streets sometime this month.

Rick Ross' Manager Claims Rapper Owes $1 Million, Feared For His Life Due To ThreatsMiami rapper Rick Ross has been hit with a lawsuit claiming he owes his manager more than $1 million dollars for services rendered over a three year period that produced Ross' hit album Port of Miami.

Philadelphia based Respect Management, owned by attorney Kevon Glickman, filed the lawsuit yesterday (Apr. 10) in the United States District Court of Pennsylvania.

The lawsuit claims that Ross, born William Roberts, breached the three-year management agreement that he signed in 2004 by attempting to divert commissions due to Respect Management to his co-manager, Elric "E-Class" Prince.

According to the lawsuit, Ross signed with Respect Management in 2004.Soon afterwards, Ross landed a major label deal with Def Jam, which released the six-foot four, 300 pound rapper's debut Port of Miami.

The album moved over 800,000 copies based on the hit singles "Hustlin'" and "Push It."Glickman claims that while Ross was his client, Ross' earnings went from $5,000 to more than $1 million in the three year span, yet Ross failed to compensate Respect Management for its management services, in excess of $1 million dollars.

The lawsuit claims that through the use of "physical" and "mental" intimidation, "Roberts has demanded that management commissions due on his record and publishing contracts be paid by Def Jam and Sony to Elric "E-Class" Prince rather than to Respect as required by the agreement."

In addition to acting as Ross' co-manager, Elric "E-Class" Prince is also the head of Miami based record label Poe Boy Entertainment.

According to Glickman, he was threatened in a "series of phone calls, meetings, emails, text messages and other methods" in such a manner that he "would be subjected to severe and bodily harm and/or loss of his life if he did not consent to their demands."

"The coercion by Roberts and Prince consisted of explicit and implicit threats and intimidation of Glickman by indicating that they were from the streets of Miami, knew how to handle themselves and had known and associated with persons engaged in criminal conduct in the Gang life of Miami and other cities," Glickman's complaint reads.

The lawsuit also claims that Ross continues to perform and earn a substantial amount of income and has failed to compensate Respect Management the 20% of gross earnings called for in the contract.

Additionally, Respect Management is seeking an injunction to prevent Ross from receiving several advances from Slip-N-Slide Records, Def Jam and Sony Publishing.

Snoop Avoids Prison Time, Pleads No Contest To Weapons ChargesRap star Snoop Dogg entered into a no contest plea today (Apr. 11) in order to avoid serving time in prison. The rapper was officially charged yesterday (Apr. 10) with gun and drug possession as a result of a run in with police at the Bob Hope Airport in October of 2006.

Snoop was arrested after police noticed his vehicle parked in a passenger pick up zone. A search of the car yielded a substantial amount of marijuana.

The rapper was accused of transporting marijuana and a search of Snoop Dogg's home turned up a gun, resulting in the rapper being charged with possession of a firearm.

The rapper faced up to four years in prison if the case had gone to trial.

"Snoop accepts full responsibility for these matters," said his attorney Donald Etra in a statement. "He understands that, while he has every reason to seek security and protection, he cannot have a gun in his own vehicle, and he must only employ licensed security personnel. By the same token, although Snoop possesses a medical marijuana certificate, he recognizes, he cannot possess more marijuana than permitted by that law," explained Etra.

Although he was able to avoid prison time, Snoop will be required to perform 800 hours of community service and faces five years formal probation.

The judge stated that 400 of those hours could involve Snoop's popular youth football league."Snoop appreciates the courtesy and cooperation extended to him by the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office, which was very helpful in resolving these matters," Etra said in a statement.The no contest plea ends one case, but the rapper still has a court appearance next month to answer charges stemming from a Sept. incident at John Wayne Airport.

Police claim the rapper had a collapsible police baton in his laptop bag as he attempted to pass through a security check point on Sept. 27.

A hearing will be held in May related to those charges.

Snoop Dogg's recent UK tour with Sean "Diddy" Combs was canceled because the rapper was banned from the country, after a fight erupted at London’s Heathrow Airport involving Snoop and his entourage and airport security.

Two Bench Warrants Issued for DMXOn Wednesday (April 11) two separate bench warrants were issued for DMX after he failed to show up in court. According to the Associated Press, X was due in court in White Plains, NY as well as his hometown of Yonkers on two separate traffic infractions.

Judges in both of the cases issued warrants for his arrest. X had already failed to show up for the White Plains hearing on Tuesday (April 10) and was given until 2:00 p.m. yesterday to make it into court. His attorney, Murray Richman, said his client was in Arizona as of Tuesday and had vowed to make it to New York for both hearings on Wednesday.

“In truth, I do not know where he is,” said Richman. “Why would he be hiding out from a damn traffic infraction?” Last June, the Yonkers native was jailed for a single night after he missed two court dates related to the White Plains case.

He was released the next day after posting $25,000 bond. White Plains Judge Brian Hansbury told Richman yesterday that if he produces his client within two weeks, he will “listen to his reasons” for his tardiness before forfeiting the bond money.

ORLANDO BROWN FROM ‘THAT’S SO RAVEN’ ARRESTED…Brown, 19, who plays Eddie Thomas, the best friend of star Raven Symone on the popular show, was arrested after police pulled him over about 1 a.m. in the 4200 block of Westheimer.

The officer stopped the 1992 Acura Integra that Brown was driving because the headlights were off. During a search of the car, the officer found the marijuana on the driver’s side door.Brown, in an interview, denied that the marijuana belonged to him.

Also a singer and rapper, he said a friend lent him the car to use during his stay in Houston to make an album.

“I didn’t know what was in the car. That’s not what I do. I consider myself a youth activist,” he said.

Brown said he thought the car’s headlights were on when the officer pulled him over.

Brown was taken into custody without incident and charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession. He was released on bond.

In addition to the Disney Channel television show, Brown has appeared in several movies, including Max Keeble’s Big Move and Major Payne.

E-40 Donates $12,000 to Alma MaterBay Area rapper E-40 recently donated $12,000 to his alma mater, Hogan High School, to purchase new drums and marching equipment for the school’s band. According to Vallejo’s Herald-Times, 40 stepped up to the plate after learning the school was in desperate need of new equipment after vandals broke into the band room and destroyed some of the already decrepit instruments.“We’ve been waiting for this forever. Everything that we do has to go through fundraisers,” said drumline instructor Tina Jamias. “We always struggle every year.” On Wednesday (April 11), 40 presented a check to the students and school administrators, and was treated to a performance by the band. “Our equipment was run down. I can’t imagine how they are getting through with it now,” said 40. “I wanted to do something for my school. And I want people to know it’s cool to be in band. It’s cool to play instruments.”

Kimora Lee Simmons Set To "Style" On 'Em With New Reality SeriesFormer model and Baby Phat CEO Kimora Lee Simmons will be the focal point of her own reality show entitled "Kimora," set to debut on the Style Network this summer.

The show, which was developed specifically for the fashion-conscious cable network, will take viewers into both Simmons' personal and professional lives as she gives cameras a first hand look into what it takes to be both a mom as well as an executive. "Kimora" will showcase how the fashion guru balances her duties as CEO of Baby Phat, a global brand that now includes cosmetics, fragrances, home goods and jewelry while still finding time to be a parent to her two daughters, seven-year-old Ming and four-year-old Aoki at her New Jersey estate.The show will be the first reality sitcom series for the network.

"Kimora Lee Simmons is simply a fascinating woman," said Salaam Coleman Smith, Executive Vice President of The Style Network. "She is refreshingly blunt, absolutely honest and outrageously entertaining ... the kind of woman who knows what she wants and how to get it. Nothing she does is small, nothing she says is insignificant and nothing she wants is unavailable. This series is going to open a lot of women's eyes to the possibilities life has to offer, and all of us at Style are happy to be working with such an inspirational woman."

The series was developed for The Style Network by Elaine Brooks and Steve Cantor, while the E! Network's Carmen Mitcho will executive produce the series.

Block Enterprises, Bad Boy South Partner For New Mixtape With DJ DramaTogether with The Aphilliates and DJ Drama, Russell “Block” Spencer of Atlanta-based Block Enterprises will soon release a new mixtape featuring some of the South’s most promising talent.

American Gangsta: Gangsta Grillz Special Edition will include tracks from the latest Boyz N Da Hood album, Back Up N Da Chevy.

"Someone who is able to take pennies and turn them into dollars is an 'American Gangsta,'" Spencer told AllHipHop.com. "I was able to do my thing in the streets, take my street education, and use it to build my company, Block Enterprises."

Other artists featured on the mixtape will include Rick Ross, Young Jeezy, Big Kuntry, and T.I.American Gangsta also highlights Gorilla Zoe, the latest artist signed to Block Enterprises and newest member of Atlanta super-group Boyz N Da Hood.

"You will hear them all on the American Gangsta mixtape, which also includes Zoe's 'Hood Nigga,'" Block said. "That song in and of itself is an example of an 'American Gangsta.' Zoe is an 'American Gangsta.' Like me, he is turning pennies into dollars."

American Gangsta is another venture between Block Enterprises and Bad Boy South.The two labels first joined forces for the 2005 release of Boyz N Da Hood’s self-titled debut album .

Block Enterprises and Bad Boy South partnered made an impressive debut with Yung Joc’s album New Joc City, which spawned hit singles like "It's Goin Down" and "I Know You See It."Both Yung Joc and Boyz N Da Hood are planning on releasing albums this summer.Boyz N Da Hood’s Back Up N Da Chevy is set for June 12 and Yung Joc’s Hustlenomics set for a July 10 release date.

The album has been years in the making. “I restructured this album,” Grafh said. “It’s a little personal. I wanted to introduce new producers to showcase new, hot music and new, hot lyrics and some introspective content...”

Black Hand is also releasing some tracks from Autografh as a free download to all fans. “We are in a new climate in the music business,” says Black Hand CEO Chazz Williams. “It’s a highly competitive environment with a new web-savvy consumer. They want to know what they’re getting for their money. They are no longer being hoodwinked and rushing to the stores simply because they hear the one record [on the album] playing at radio.”

The lead single for Autografh is “Glo In The Dark.”Kanye West Postpones WeddingKanye West and fiancé Alexis Rainey may not be getting married anytime soon according to mediatakeout.com. Someone close to Rainey's family told sources the couple has put their wedding plans on hold indefinitely.

However, the insider refused to give further details on what caused the couple’s change of heart although it was never really clear when the couple were to wed in the first place.“They’re both young, so there’s plenty of time to get married…if that’s what they really want,” said the anonymous source.

Since announcing his engagement last summer, West has been romantically linked to several women including Pamela Anderson, Fantasia Barrino and British pop star Amelle Berrabah.Bone Crusher Forms New Label, Vainglorious Entertainment, Preps Release of Fitness DVDAtlanta’s Bone Crusher has started his own record label — Vainglorious Entertainment — with his wife and manger, Aneesah Bray. Formerly signed to So So Def Records, Bone Crusher made his debut in 2003 with his hit single “Never Scared” off his album AttenCHUN! But Bone Crusher left the label when Jermaine Dupri and So So Def moved to Virgin Records in 2005. Now, Crusher is preparing for the release of his new album, Free. The album’s lead single, “Round,” features an alternative hip-hop sound that differs from his previous material. Bone Crusher is also releasing his own fitness DVD, Battle of the Bulge, after appearing on VH1’s Celebrity Fit Club 4 last year.

Debuting at No. 5 on the charts this week is Timbaland. His latest set, Shock Value, which features collabos with 50 Cent, Justin Timberlake and Elton John, scanned 138,000 discs in its opening week, according to Nielsen's SoundScan.

The re-release of Beyonce's B'Day, which features six new songs, helps the Houston bred crooner make an amazing leap from No. 69 to No. 6. The deluxe edition disc shelves off 126,000 CDs in its first week, pushing B'Day's tally to 2,490,000.

Entering the charts at No. 8 this week is Paul Wall with his sophomore album Get Money, Stay True. The set, which features appearances from Jermaine Dupri, Snoop Dogg and Juelz Santana, moves 92,000 copies in its first week spin.

A four spot drop to No. 9 is far from bad news for Akon. His second album, Konvicted, attains double platinum status this week by moving 74,600 units. After 21 weeks, the album has sold 2,070,500 copies.

Young Buck, who debuted at No. 3 last week, tumbles fourteen spots to No. 17. Buck The World shells out 55,000 discs in its second week. The album's tally stands at 196,400.Posted up at No. 19, former *NSYNC front man Justin Timberlake continues to keep cash registers ringing. FutureSex/Love Sounds has sold 3,090,200 copies thus far, with 51,500 representing the week-in total.

Sinking twelve levels to No. 20 is Joss Stone. Introducing Joss Stone bags up 47,000 units this week. To date, the album has sold 223,800.

After debuting at No. 4 last week, New York rapper MIMS trips seventeen spots to No. 21. Music Is My Savior shifts 45,700 discs in its second week, bringing the album's total to 123,500.Taking ten steps down the ladder to No. 22 is UK vocalist Amy Winehouse . This week, 45,600 fans picked up her sophomore album, Back To Black. After 4 weeks , the disc has sold a total of 190,500 copies.

The Black Eyed Peas' Fergie stalls four slots to No. 23 this week. Dutchess, which is on its 29th week on the charts, reins in 42,700 units. So far, the album has sold 1,720,400 copies.

Murder Inc vocalist Lloyd continues to stay afloat on the charts. Holding on to the No. 28 spot, Street Love hustles 36,700 discs this week, rounding out the crooner's sales to 270,100.Five slots below is Robin Thicke at No. 33. Evolution Of Robin Thicke is a foot away from platinum status with its total standing at 916,400. The album scans 32,600 discs this week.

Rich Boy continues to struggle to find a solid spot on the charts as he slips ten slots to No. 35. His self titled album shifts 31,000 units in its fourth week, bringing the album's total to 223,700.Musiq Soulchild nose-dives twenty floors to No. 40 this week. Luvanmusiq pushes 28,000 in its fourth spin on the charts. So far, the album has sold a total of 266,700 copies.

Lil' Flip, who debuted at No. 15 last week, plummets to No. 59. His double disc, I Need Mine, moves 18,300 units in its second week. The album's tally stands at 61,700.

Not far behind at No. 60 is Ciara . Evolution hauls in 17,300 copies this week. After 18 weeks on the charts, the Atlanta bred singer has sold 1,103,900 discs.

Four steps away at No. 64, Young Jeezy officially goes platinum. The Inspiration ropes in 16,915 discs this week, bringing the album's total sales to 1,000,700 copies.

After debuting at No. 16 last week, Redman plunges fifty three spots to No. 66. In its second week, Red Gone Wild sells 16,900 discs, pushing the Funk Doc's album sales to 61,400.Also dropping drastically is Marques Houston who falls thirty floors to No. 68. Veteran shelves off 16,400 discs in its third week on the charts. The album has sold 108,900 thus far.

Further down the ladder, Baby Boy Da Prince slides twenty seven seats to No. 87. Across The Water sells 13,000 discs this week, bringing its tally to 52,600. Anthony Hamilton's Southern Comfort , a compilation of unreleased joints by the soulful crooner before his major deal, enters the charts at No. 90 selling 12,500 copies in its opening week. The Notorious B.I.G.'s Greatest Hits continues it downward spiral as it stumbles forty four spots to No. 93. The compilation only moves 11,800 copies this week , rounding its total to 190,500. Macy Gray, who debuted at No. 7 last week , slumps hard to No. 107 this week. In its second go-around, BIG, scans 10,000 copies. The album's tally stands at 33,100. 8Ball & MJG's ride on the charts seems to be running out of gas as they plunge from No. 50 to No. 108. Riding High pushes 9,900 units in its fourth week on the charts, rounding up the album's total sales to 101,000 . Also hurting in the sales department is Crime Mob at No. 115. Hated On Mostly only cashes out 9,360 discs this week. After 3 weeks, the album has sold a total of 44,600 copies. Wrapping things is up Mobb Deep's Prodigy at No. 116. Return Of The Mac, which debuted at No. 2 last week, shifts 9,300 units this week, bringing the rapper's total album sales to 36,500.

Next week look for Timbaland and Beyonce to battle it out for the top slot.

Crooked raps over the "I'm Throwed" beat that Jermaine Dupri did for Paul Wall. Crooked gets real controversial on this one, as he disses the hell out of DMX.

This resulted from recent comments DMX made about the West Coast, here is a portion of what X said: "I don't like a lot of West Coast rappers. West Coast rap is too laid back, too focused on marijuana with all the blunts and lowriders. There's nothing honest. There's no hardship in it. Everyone in L.A. that raps has a lowrider and a fat blunt. There's nothin' to make you say, 'I can relate to that.'"

Crooked was one of many rappers who took offence to those statements, so he decided to air out his feelings on wax.

(L note: Now originally I ignored the comments by Earl being that we all know he's on crack, but apparently some of my fellow Californians ( "born in the East, raised to G in the west") aint feel the same way. So young Crooked decided to speak for the state. Ya'll know i sponsor my soil all day, even tho I'm not in Cali anymore i still call it home. I just hope Cracky don't try to respond. this could get ugly)

The charges stem from an Oct. 26 incident at the Bob Hope airport by Burbank police at the Bob Hope Airport. Police approached the rapper for parking in a passenger pickup zone and discovered marijuana in his vehicle.

Snoop Dogg, 35, was arrested on suspicion of transportation of a controlled substance.After being taken into custody, the rapper was freed on $35,000 bond. Burbank police later executed a search warrant and found a gun in the rapper's home.

Snoop, born Cordozar Calvin Broadus, was charged with gun possession by a felon and sale or transportation of marijuana, both felonies.

According to Deputy District Attorney Marian Thompson, Snoop Dogg is scheduled to be arraigned at 10:00 am tomorrow (Apr. 11) in Pasadena Superior Court, Dept. D.If convicted, Snoop Dogg faces up to four years in state prison.

The rapper, born Earl Simmons, failed to appear at a pretrial conference related to various driving violations related to a June 2 incident in which the rapper was stopped for driving his SUV at high speeds.

DMX was also ticketed for making an unsafe lane change and was not wearing a seat belt when he was pulled over.

Yesterday Judge Brian Hansbury gave the rapper a one-day reprieve but ordered DMX to appear in court today (Apr. 11) or a warrant would be issued for his arrest. DMX is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle for driving with a suspended license. He was also issued tickets for the unsafe lane change violations.

Simmons failed to appear in court last summer to answer the charges and an arrest warrant was issued for the rapper.

Sparks, born Kenneth Johnson, was signed to Roc-A-Fella Records by CEO's Jay-Z and Damon Dash and was part of the State Property rap group, which featured Philly rappers Beanie Sigel, Freeway, Oschino Vazquez and Omillio Sparks, and the Young Gunz and Peedi Crakk.

The group split apart amidst legal issues involving Sigel, as well as the sale of Roc-A-Fella Records to the Island Def Jam Music Group in 2004.

Sparks recently voiced his frustrations with Jay-Z, because he was unable to clear various samples containing Jay-Z's voice for his upcoming album The Pay Back, which is being released on his own independent label, Colossal Entertainment.

“My major focus right now is getting my situation right wherever it may be, I have a few situations on the table," Sparks said. "The good thing about it now is I am older now, and understand the business a lot more than when I was a young boy and just happy to be on TV with a n***a. I am about my paper now and most importantly me. When the album drops this summer everyone will know who the f**k I am.”

According to Sparks' reps, The Pay Back could be released on Roc-A-Fella.

Former label mate Beanie Sigel contacted Colossal Entertainment to discuss Sparks' possible return to the Roc, as well as the prospects of a State Property 3 album.

Sparks helped author verses and hooks on both State Property albums. His most high profile appearance is a cameo on Jay-Z's hit single "I Just Wanna Love You."

The rapper also has prominent roles in the movies State Property and State Property 2.

Spider Loc Calls Out Fellow G-Unit Member In New Game Diss SongIn a retaliatory diss record aimed at The Game, Spider Loc has taken subliminal shots at his G-Unit affiliate Young Buck.

As previously reported, Game released the track "Body Bags" last week, which took aim at Buck and G-Unit for an alleged assault on 14- year-old James Rosemond by G-Unit rapper Tony Yayo. James is the son of Game's manager, Jimmy "Henchman" Rosemond...

The release of the track would also mark the end of a truce that Buck and Game made after bumping into each other in Las Vegas last month.

In Loc's response record titled "Toe Tagz," which can be heard on his official myspace page, the rapper refers to Game as "a diva who beefs with Vida" and questions his ties to the Bloods gang before stealthily calling out Buck.

Buck's place on the G-Unit seems to be shaky after 50 Cent voiced his displeasure with his Southern affiliate's attempts to make peace with Game on Hot 97 last week.

"I hold him in the same space that I held Game in," said the G-Unit honcho. "He's in the same space. He's in the same boat from having the same actions."

Young Buck's sophomore album, Buck The World, debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 last week. The album features appearances from 8Ball & MJG, Snoop Dogg, T.I. and Young Jeezy, among others.

Proof Documentary Coming to TheatersOne year after the death of D12 rapper Proof, a new movie featuring the slain lyricist will hit theaters.

The documentary titled Time A Tell, provides a look at the Detroit Hip-Hop scene, while featuring Proof and DJ Jewels in the studio as they put together a complete 18-track CD full of original lyrics and beats within 24 hours for a segment called The Challenge.

Presented by Jewels, Priceless Music and Iron Fist Records, Time A Tell is the last creative work of Proof, who was fatally shot one year ago today (Apr. 11 2006) at the Triple C club on Eight Mile Road following a heated argument with 35-year-old Keith Bender Jr.The alleged shooter, Bender’s cousin Mario Etheridge, avoided murder charges in the case after a court determined he shot and killed Proof in an act of self-defense.

Since the incident, Bender’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Proof's estate, claiming the rapper was responsible for escalating a fist fight that resulting in Proof pulling a gun on Bender and shooting him.

Time A Tell will premiere at 8 p.m. Thursday (April 12) in the GM Theater at the Charles H. Wright Museum in Detroit.

Lawsuit Against Janet Jackson Moves ForwardJanet Jackson will have to answer questions under oath about an alleged bodyguard malfunction.

A Manhattan judge has denied a bid by the pop superstar to get a $120 million assault suit against her thrown out, and said she'll have to give a deposition in the case.

Leonard Salati, 41, claims that two of Jackson's bodyguards grabbed and choked him when he tried to pass her a note at Club Marquee in February 2004.

Jackson's lawyers argued the suit should be tossed, because she and her co-defendant boyfriend, Jermaine Dupri, had only one bodyguard working for them at the Chelsea hot spot that night, and he was a "Caucasian."

Salati had said the men who roughed him up were African-American - and one of them was 300 pounds. Lawyers for Jackson and Dupri said their bodyguard was 5-foot-8 and 180 pounds, and submitted a copy of his driver's license to back up their claim.

In a ruling made public yesterday, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Rolando Acosta let the case go forward, noting that despite Jackson's assertions to the contrary, the club - which also is being sued - said she had at least three bodyguards, and two of them were African-American.

The judge also noted the bodyguard's license does "not show that he is Caucasian. Indeed, to this court's untrained eye, he appears to be a medium dark Latino, [who] could pass as being African American."

"Notwithstanding counsel's valiant effort to shield Ms. Jackson," the law grants "no exemptions based on celebrity status," the judge wrote, and she will have to give a deposition.

Shawnna Dropped From D.T.P. RecordsShawnna has been dropped by Ludacris and the DTP Family.

In a supposed statement from Ludacris, this is what he had to say about the

“Shawnna is a very talented artist but is no longer rocking with DTP''

The Chicago native has had a hard time getting her respect in this industry. After three albums and a semi rocky relationship with Def Jam. She had a hit record last summer titled “Getting Some Head”, but after that she disappeared on the music charts.

Name-Nivea Age-21Zodiac sign- CapricornHometown-originally from Rochester,NY, but now lives in Va. beachInterest- Dance

Ladies if you think you have what it takes to be The Mid-Week Mami, Email L with the subject MidWeek Mami at ImHipHopNews@gmail.com. Only The Sexiest Of The Sexy will make it. all pics become property of ImHipHop. Thanks and good luck.

Apr 10, 2007

Remy Ma Officially Released From Terror SquadSouth Bronx, NY rapper Remy Ma has officially been released from her deal with Terror Squad/SRC/Universal.

Remy Ma first requested that she be released shortly after the release of her debut album, There's Something About Remy , but due to legal hang-ups and bitter negotiations her status as a free agent was not made official until Apr. 9.

"I felt that I had out grown them I had been dealing with Joe and Steve since I was 18 years old," Remy Ma told AHH.com. "We no longer had the same goals. They're used to me being 'little' Remy who wanted all the fly sneakers, a nice whip and the biggest chain you ever saw on a girl."

Well known for her involvement in various freestyle battles, Remy Ma caught the attention of rapper Big Pun who became a mentor to the up and coming rapper. Remy Ma's career with Terror Squad began when Fat Joe signed her to Terror Squad/SRC Records after the death of Big Pun.

Although Remy Ma was featured on the popular and well received singles "Ante Up," "Lean Back" "Conceited" and "Whuteva," her album There's Something About Remy only moved about 75,000 units in it's first week.

"After 'Whuteva', 'Conceited' and 'Feels So Good,' I should've been outta here," Remy Ma said. "To me they just didn't have the same drive anymore. They're getting older and they're comfortable. Me on the other hand, I'm just maturing and I'm hungry and I'm in beast mode.I want so much,and I refuse to lose or settle. I paid my dues now it's Remy time."

As a free woman, Remy Ma is currently beginning work on her second album entitled Punish-Her .

The Ron Browz produced track "Fresh" will be the first single off the album and should hit airwaves sometime this spring.

"I'm sitting in meetings all day, everyday politicking my own label, with me being my first artist," Remy Ma revealed. "I have so many other projects involving films, TV and endorsements, but most important is my album."

Remy Ma also addressed Shawnna's unexpected departure from their highly anticipated female rap collective, before the group even released a record.

"Shawnna being gone is news to me," Remy Ma continued. "We love Shawnna and wish her the best in whatever she chooses to do. But we're still recording," Remy Ma said.

According to Remy, females rappers like Trina, Charli Baltimore, Lil' Mo and several others have already laid down vocals for the upcoming project.

"Hopefully we can get some of the other women in the industry as well," Remy Ma said. "I just want our category back in the Grammy's so I can win that!"

Lil Wayne Talks About Upcoming Album & Mannie FreshControversy hit Lil' Wayne like crazy this year. After alleged beefs with Gillie and Jay-Z, he's settled down and hit the booth. Now, he's ready to unleash more music.

"I'm trying to drop my album at like the end of the year," Wayne said.

"I'm a bouncing-around artist, on everybody's track, whatever the style is, I'm on it," he told MTV. "I'm being there for them now, and I'mma do me at the end of the year. So next year will be my whole year. But this year, I want to devote to those people, do their videos, come out, do shows with them. These songs are their singles, so if I'm not available, why even make it a single?"

Recently, he signed to Hip-Hop's management company, which is the same company managing Kanye West. How does this change their relationship?

"I can't clarify it because it's still in the air..But I can say it's way more than [producing] two songs. But you never know. The new move is definitely a blessing. A new opportunity. Of course I'm gonna use it as much as I can." Aside from this, expect to hear Mannie Fresh on the next Wayne album, which is shocking since few thought it would ever happen again. Mannie Fresh spoke to MTV about this as well.

"We been talking about it. I told him what my restrictions are. I said, 'As long as it's you, I'm fine with it. I don't have no problems with it. As long as it's paid for and all the paperwork is done, I'm cool with it.' Because just as much as I'm a part of [Wayne], he's a part of me. I don't see nothing wrong with it. I had bad business with one person in that equation, Baby. That shouldn't stop me and Wayne from doing something."

For those waiting on Juelz and Wayne to drop I Can't Feel My Face, the album...Keep waiting.

"Juelz just called me and said, 'Since we waiting for somebody to come to the table with the right money, we have so much material, we should drop a mixtape...So that's what we gonna do, drop a mixtape first. Then probably try to get some big names to do some beats and the album will drop. The mixtape will come by the end of the month. The album, we have to schedule it right. See what a company wants to do. Our plan was to do the whole album ourselves like some starving artists and present it to a company."

New Book, Third Coast, Says Hip-Hop Started In The SouthAuthor Roni Sarig is releasing a new book that explores hip-hop’s origins in the South — Third Coast: OutKast, Timbaland, and How Hip-Hop Became a Southern Thing. But don’t fret hip-hop fans. Sarig isn’t saying the Bronx isn’t the birthplace of modern day hip-hop.

In his book, he explores the history of rap, stating it goes back to the oral tradition of slaves in the South, field hollers and the blues and gospel. Sarig says this connects the dots to early 20th century African American radio announcers who “rhymed, testified and signified.” Hosts like Jacko Henderson, Daddy-O and Poppa Stoppa actually spoke in rhyme.

Their radio shows, in turn, would “influence Jamaica’s earliest toasters such as U-Roy and Sir Lord Comic to perform their rhythmic rhymes over reggae dubs.”

It was these “toasters” who would then influence DJ Kool Herc, the father of hip-hop. Besides hip-hop’s roots, Third Coast also explores the current rise of southern hip-hop. The book features interviews with artists such as Bun B, T.I., Trick Daddy, The Clipse, Lil Jon and more.

Duke University Considering Legal Action Against T.I.T.I. may be faced with a lawsuit from Duke University, after the rapper arrived late and walked off the stage early during the university's Cameron Rocks! concert that took place on Saturday (Apr. 7).

According to Duke's student newspaper The Chronicle, T.I. was paid $70,000 to perform for a full hour at the Cameron Indoor Stadium, but he abruptly exited the stage and ended his show 40 minutes into his set.

According to Duke University Union officials, the Grammy Award winning rapper was late to the concert, because he attended an unrelated dinner at P.F. Chang's China Bistro, leaving over 3,000 fans waiting.

In related news, T.I. has been booked to play at Cornell University's Cornell's Slope Day Celebration, which takes place on May 4th, 2007.

The Lil Kim Cares Foundation, in conjunction with the National Alliance to End Abuse organized the auction in an effort to raise funds to benefit multiple programs that assist with issues of homelessness, HIV/AIDS prevention, transitional living and abuse towards woman and children.

The auction kicks off on Friday April 12 and will run through Sunday April 15. The public will be able to bid on various personal items belonging to Kim, as well as an opportunity to step into the studio with the Grammy winning rapper and record an original song.

Kim and Jean Chouteau, Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning for The Alliance, will appear on Good Day New York on April 12 to announce additional details about the auction.

Nelly Gets Release Date, Stars in New FilmNelly's new album is scheduled to drop August 28, according to his publicist. The rapper has been recording the as-yet-unofficially titled project, his fifth, in St. Louis and Atlanta, as of yet no collaborations or producers have been officially announced, though he has been rumored to be working with Ashanti, Fat Joe, T.I. and Jermaine Dupri, among others...

In other Nelly news, he's following up his role in the football film The Longest Yard with another sports comedy called Rolling Thunder. "I can't really talk about it," he told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, "but we're working on a project with one of my all-time favorite pastimes going on. It's a bowling flick."

Universal/Republic Signs Atlanta's Shop BoyzUniversal Republic Records has entered into an agreement with OnDeck Records to market, distribute and release new hip hop trio the Shop Boyz, whose debut single "Party Like A Rockstar," scored as most added new single at urban radio last week, continuing to build excitement ahead of its official Tuesday, April 10 release date.

Launched by OnDeck Records, the Shop Boyz' initial breakthrough has been forged by Atlanta label's CEO, Brian ‘Bingo' Ward, who has skillfully guided the groundbreaking trio's rapid trajectory into the mainstream. The group's riotous blast of hip hop-meets-rock has transformed the southern hip hop landscape, emerging from Atlanta's underground urban music scene and inspiring a new punk wave among the south's hip hop tastemakers. With major labels in hot pursuit of the group since the beginning of 2007, the three members, Fat, Meanie, and Sheed are being hailed as new pioneers of the genre. "We are excited to be in business with Brian Ward and OnDeck Records," stated Monte Lipman, President Of Universal Republic Records. "Brian is a great recruiter of talent and the Shop Boyz exemplifies the cutting edge of a bold new force in hip hop. Their willingness to go beyond the cookie-cutter approach in every way fits our label's artist-driven mission like a glove."

Brian B. Ward, CEO of OnDeck Records also commented: "OnDeck and The "Party Like A Rock Star," movement is already spreading well beyond the confines of the south. Monte Lipman and Universal Republic's great track record of thinking out-of-the-box and providing the ultimate exposure for their artists will ensure the Shop Boyz stay ‘street' and connect with the millions of fans hungering for something new in hip hop."

Current plans call for the debut Shop Boyz album, Rockstar Mentality, to be released by Universal Republic on June 26. The group will be shooting a much anticipated video for "Party Like A Rockstar," later this week, to be directed by Marc Klasfeld (Nelly, Juvenile, Ludacris, Foo Fighters) and to be shot in their native Atlanta.

MELYSSA FORD VS. ‘106 & PARK’S’ ROCSI?BET correspondent Melyssa Ford used her Sirius Satellite Radio show Monday to address reports at MediaTakeOut that she got into a catfight last week with “106 & Park” host, Rocsi.

The Web site reported that Tyrese was at the root of the altercation, which took place during the annual hip hop conference at Howard University. As their story goes, both ladies had been dating the singer-actor, and their pent-up animosity toward each other was exposed in the wrong place and the wrong time.

A witness tells MediaTakeOut:

"They started off talking about Hurricane Katrina and then all of a sudden they were yelling at each other. And Rocsi was cursing like crazy ... but it started to get serious when Melyssa called Rocsi a b****."

The insider continued, "It was so embarrassing - there were professors there and everything. Poor Terrence J had to basically pull Rocsi to the side and calm her down. I swear it looked like something was about to pop off."

On her Sirius Satellite Radio show, Ford denied having a relationship with Tyrese, who is reportedly still together with his pregnant girlfriend. She said the symposium was not about Hurricane Katrina, however, the subject of BET’s role in the wake of the storm came up. Ford said she and Rosci disagreed on multiple points and thigns got a little heated. But, Ford said they hugged each other at the end of the panel and left on good terms.

Ford also used her air time to take a swipe at The Game’s “Wouldn’t Get Far,” where she is painted by the rapper as one of several famous women willing to do sexual favors to gain fame. The subject came up after a co-host asked if she really drives a Honda Accord, as Game raps in the song.

(L note: i dont really care about this story, i just needed a reason to post a pic of MELYSSA FORD.)

Lumidee Named Youth Ambassador for Arthritis Foundation WalkThe annual nationwide event occurs in May during national Arthritis Month, raising funds and awareness to fight arthritis, the nation's leading cause of disability. The Manhattan Arthritis Walk will take place on Sunday, April 29, at Battery Park.

I was fourteen years old when I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, stated Lumidee. At nineteen years old, the doctors said I would never walk. I worked hard and all that hard word paid off when I was able to dance in mylatest music video. I want to give other young people the confidence they need to stop this disease from controlling their lives and ask everyone to come out and join the fight against arthritis by participating in the 2007 Arthritis Walk.

Lumidee represents what can be achieved by young people with arthritis, stated Jay B. Adlersberg, M.D. 2007 Battery Park Arthritis Walk Chairman, ABC-TV's Health and Medical Reporter, and rheumatologist. We are proud to have her as our Youth Ambassador for this year's walk. We hope that her participation will inspire the 300,000 young people suffering from arthritis in our country.

Lumidee's new CD, Unexpected, is scheduled for release on April 17th. A native of Spanish Harlem, Lumidee first came to the attention of the public when her smash hit Never Leave You (Uh Oooh, Uh Oooh) reached the no. 3 slot on Billboard¹s Hot 100 in 2003. Her current single, She's Like The Wind, featuring Terror Squad member Tony Sunshine, is a hot remake of the Patrick Swayze cut from Dirty Dancing fame and is currently at 46 on the Billboard Hot 100. Unexpected also features tracks with Shaggy, Jim Jones, N.O.R.E., Snoop and TVT labelmate Pitbull.

Lumidee's fans can go to http://BatteryParkArthritisWalk.kintera.org/newyork/teamlumidee to sign up for Team Lumidee to participate in the walk or make donations.

Xzibit, 'Pimp My Ride' Crew Get Down With Governor Schwarzenegger For Earth DayWith Earth Day 2007 coming up, MTV and the "Pimp My Ride" crew get a very special guest in the shop. As a part of a special Earth Day episode California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger visits Xzibit, Mad Mike and the rest of the crew as they take a '65 Chevy Impala, and give it a one of a kind ecological alteration.

"I would like to thank MTV and the entire 'Pimp my Ride' crew for shining the spotlight on the importance of alternative fuels and the fight against global warming," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "I am very encouraged by the great potential in converting vehicles to run on biodiesel as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. I am pleased that the power of MTV's message will reach an audience throughout California and the nation to reinforce the benefits of alternative-fuel vehicles and protecting our environment."

With the help of Galpin, Imperium Renewables, General Motors and others, the Impala will get an 800 horsepower diesel engine that will run on biodiesel, turning it into one extraordinary clean machine.

The special episode will air on April 22nd at 1 p.m. ET/PT, as part of the thinkMTV (Think.MTV.com) year long, 12-step campaign "Break The Addiction" engaging, empowering, and educating millions of young people to make smart, everyday choices that both improve their life and help curb the impact of climate change and preserve the environment.

It will kick off a "Pimp My Ride" Sneak Peek marathon featuring all new episodes of the MTV hit series. "What better way to celebrate the anniversary of our 'Break the Addiction' campaign than pimping the environment with a pro like Governor Schwarzenegger -- a powerful voice in the fight against climate change," said Christina Norman, President, MTV. "During the past year, we've reached millions, giving our audience the tools they want to make changes in their own lives. The state of our environment is one of the most critical issues facing our audience today and we're honored that we can inspire and educate even more as we celebrate Earth Day with this special 'Pimp My Ride' event.

"ThinkMTV first launched its "Break The Addiction" campaign on Earth Day in 2006. To date, "Break the Addiction" has reached millions of young people through on air programming, MTV News stories, public service announcements, online resources, contests and on the ground mobilizing.For more information about thinkMTV's Break the Addiction campaign, visit think.mtv.com.

Apr 9, 2007

The Game is quite busy lately. He's currently busy raising a child (Harlem) and preparing for another one, King Justice, who is scheduled for birth at the end of April. He also has the streets buzzing with a new mixtape and he recently spoke to MTV on many issues.

On his new nickname:

"I'm changing my street name: I'm killing Hurricane and I'm just gonna run with the Murda Game. Like I said, I talked to Nas at the "Hustlers" video shoot, and we was talking about his career and where he's been, talking about [Nas' aliases] Escobar and Nasty Nas. And I said, "I had heard some sh-- from back in the day when you was Nasty Nas. It was the so raw, uncut, so street." I was like, "I need one of them aliases." He was like, "Well, if I'm Nasty Nas, then you Murda Game because you murder n---as." That's what it is: Out with the Hurricane, in with Murda Game. I got that from a don, man. A king gave me that, so I had to run with it."

On his relationship with Nas:"The "Hustlers" video shoot was dope. You gonna see it real soon. I ain't even got a lot to say about it except it's dope. To be in the same space, same area, even to be a part of the same song as today's hip-hop king, Nas, is real. That's Mr. Illmatic, everybody knows Illmatic — my grandma knows what Illmatic is! To be in Cali shooting that video with Nas, and for him be as big a big brother as he has [been] to me in my career, was just dope..."Why You Hate the Game" is not definite, but it's supposed to be my next single. If all goes right, we're gonna shoot that in L.A. too. Me and Nas been talking, doing lot of polying lately. He's one of the n---as in hip-hop that I really f--- with, that I really have a lot of love for outside of hip-hop."

On 50 claiming Buck is in the same space as Game:"When I heard that, I had to throw it on the mixtape. 50 saying he's gonna kick Buck off of G-Unit, he's on the same space as I am. I feel bad for Buck because I knew all this was gonna happen, and I tried to tell Buck this a long time ago...Me and Buck are still good. A lot of people thought in the "Body Bags" song, when I say that line, "F--- the whole G-Unit, who lied to Buck?" that I'm dissing him. I'm not dissin' Buck. I meant, why ain't nobody tell him ... why n---as don't keep it real over there [at G-Unit]? Why you don't tell your artists you not gonna take care of him, that you self-motivated? I'm just speaking on 50 Cent. All 50 cares about is himself, he don't care about Buck, he don't care about Yayo, he don't care about Banks. He didn't give a f--- about me. [Former G-Unit Records president] Sha Money — him and Sha Money ain't really talking. 50 says they cool but they ain't really cool.I'm just saying, why n---as over there don't keep it real? If you don't f--- with a n---a, just tell him. Let him know instead of making money off of him. I wasn't dissin' Buck — just shedding light on a situation I'm too familiar with."

On his current position with Buck:"I talked to him over the phone. I let him know where we stand. We always was 100 and we always gonna be 100. If the waves get crossed and the communication lines get cut, we gotta do what we gotta do to stay eating and keep our families alive. If it's beef, it's beef; if it's all love, it's all love. We talked about our past issues and what we can do in the future to make sure we don't cross paths on no enemy note. I think we pretty much got that figured out and wrapped up. But like I said, ain't no beef with Buck. I was talking about the rest of the G-Unit and finishing off my mission to pretty much nip them in the bud — which I've done. All this whole "50 not wanting to work with G-Unit" and him not feeling Buck and him saying he don't wanna do features [on G-Unit records] anymore, it's all me. That's my campaign. Them dudes is down, G-Unit is wrap. Don't ever expect to hear anything from them in a collaborative effort in your lifetime."

On Yayo hitting Jimmy Henchman's son:"I ain't got too much to say about that situation. I hope Jimmy's son is all right and I hope [Yayo] gets whatever he deserves from God and whatever else punishment he deserves. Hitting on kids ain't cool. But you know, Jimmy is making all the right decisions. That whole thing they doing with Reverend Al Sharpton, instead of taking it to the streets, I think that's the right way. You gotta take action against cats like that. You can't let anybody get away with that. It's a travesty that he would belittle himself to do that. It's just not cool."

A few years ago, no-one knew who Young Buck was. Once looked at as a replacement for an always-incarcerated Tony Yayo, or just a southern stand-in, he’s climbed his way up the G Unit ladder, rivaled only by leader 50 cent. He is the most respected, has had the best solo albums, and has been called on for more features this last year than 50 and Lloyd Banks combined. The question is though: Is Young Buck slowly drifting away from the Unit?

Most would say no, as Buck has claimed loyalty to G-Unit from the beginning, but his latest actions show that he may not be acting with the same intentions. There was a time that when 50 called for it, Buck would tear a hole in anyone he asked him to, but with his latest neutral stance on the beef with Game, Jadakiss,Camron, and even Fat Joe, he seems to be thinking more for himself, and less willing to follow orders he doesn’t exactly comply with.

Is he backing away from all of the conflict in order to help further his own career, or because he doesn’t believe in it? He’s obviously become the most respected member of the group over time, as when people were dissing them, they nearly always excluded Buck. These recent moves can’t sit well with 50, as Game was kicked out of the Unit for nearly the same reason.

The gap noticeably widens further. For example, on Straight Outta Cashville, it was laden with G unity/Shady features, whereas his latest album, “Buck The World” includes only 50. No Yayo, No Banks, No Olivia, No-one. Is this due to a rift within them, or is YB truly trying to separate himself from his surroundings? Word is, he might be making his departure sooner than we think.

He has various projects in the works, like Cashville Records, His own MTV reality show, a new clothing line and he’s expanding the range of artists he works with (he had Linkin Park member Chester Bennington on the album). Showing that he isn’t just content on playing the soldier role- Young Buck wants to be The Boss. It becomes even more noticeable, due to a lack of activity by his fellow members. They all seem stuck in traction, while he is surging forward. (he even released an independent cd called “T.I.P” last year)

With all of these things in mind, how long can he co-exist with Egocentric, power-hungry 50 cent? We all know that 50 has the mindset that if he is not in total control, he will do whatever it takes to get it back. Are we in for another call to Hot 97, informing us that “Young Buck is no longer a member of G-Unit”?

Buck has already spoken out against the recent Tony Yayo Incident, involving him slapping a 14 year old child, and quoted “If he really did that shit, then he isn’t a man.”

He also peaced the situation up with The Game during the NBA All-Star Break in Las Vegas, saying “I chose to have a conversation with him, because 50 wouldn’t”. Even on the 50 featured song “Hold On” where he takes jabs Dipset rivals at the end, Buck mentions that that wasn’t the original idea for the song, almost taking himself out of the equasion, and saying “He did it! Not me!”

What’s next? We hear about Young Buck pulling a 180 and making up with Ja Rule? An Ashanti track maybe? What about feauturing on a song with Fat Joe and Jadakiss? The very thought of it all must drive Curtis insane. Rumors of one with he and Game are already floating around, as every wall that Mr.Jackson worked so hard to put up, Buck is smashing down, and repaving.

One can only wonder how long 50 Cent will put up with this kind of semi-mutiny. Can you imagine a Lloyd banks diss track? I can. A Youtube Video with Yayo doing his you can’t see me dance? Yup. 20 guys acting hard on ATV’s? 50 shooting it in Connecticut? Check.

Only time will tell what’ll happen, but Curtis’ track record says we might be saying Goodbye to Young Buck pretty soon.

AKON GUNNING FOR LIL JON’S BLING TITLEAkon, whose latest single “Don’t Matter” just clocked its second week at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100, has announced that he’s attempting to break the Guinness World Record for diamond pendants set earlier this year by Lil’ Jon.

The Atlanta producer made history with a 12-pound, 73 carat “Crunk Ain’t Dead” piece. But Akon, who owns a diamond mine in his native Senegal, says he has a lil’ something for the crunk king.

“I got this one piece that definitely will tear the whole game up; it covers my whole stomach,” he told Rolling Stone "It's the continent of Africa and the diamonds actually light up... It's crazy.”

“And the country where I'm from has a little lightbulb that constantly flashes,” he added. “Mine weighs about 10-to-15 (pounds)... Once I show it off, I'm gonna auction it off and all the proceeds are going to go to my foundation."

Once he is officially in the record books, Akon said he plans to put away all of his sparkly neck and wrist wear and move on.

"I'm kinda retiring from the jewelry thing, the whole bling-bling thing,” he said. “By next year you're gonna see me with a simple watch, a simple necklace."

Meanwhile, Akon also shares the No. 2 slot on the Hot 100 with Gwen Stefani on "The Sweet Escape," which climbs from No. 6 in the wake of the duo's performance of the song two weeks ago on "American Idol."

Timbaland Expected To Debut At #1 With "Shock Value"Timbaland's new album, "Shock Value", is expected to debut at #1 on this week's Billboard charts with sales looking to be around the 145K mark. The toughest competition for Timbaland will come from Country artist Tim McGraw who currently holds down the #1 spot with his new album which sold over 300,000 copies during its first week in stores.

Beyonce will debut strong with the re-release of her album "B'day" moving around 110K copies. And while his single "I'm Throwed" has failed to ignite at radio, Paul Wall is still expected to move in the neighborhood of 90K copies of his new album "Get Money, Stay True".

It’s been 6 years since Styles P, Sheek Louch, and Jadakiss, also known as The LOX, have blessed the public with an album. Jada stopped by Hot 97 and shared a little info about their upcoming plans.

“The Lox album should be coming in may or June, and then I wanna follow that with a Kiss album,” said Jada. “It’s been 6 years since the last Lox album, but it’s fun and easy to see how the music sounds after all these years.” Kiss declined to officially announce which label he was signing to, due to current negotiations, but he did say that “It should be done by next week”DMX doesnt like West Coast Hip-HopDMX, who recently finished 2 films and signed onto another was featured in a newspaper that just surfaced, where he opens up and doesn't hold back his tongue for his dislike for westcoast hip hop music...

X made clear that he appreciated and respected the talent back in his native home in New York more than he did out in the west, where he currently resides. X claimed NY rappers talked about real issues and struggles, while westcoast music is about being laid back and lacking hardship. X mentioned The Game's name as a reference to a westcoast rapper that he could relate to due to his New York flavor. X said that he was able to respect him for that and couldn't really think of anyone else out west besides him that he could respect for that.

In a quote from Ventura County Star, X was reported as stating, "I don't like a lot of West Coast rappers. West Coast rap is too laid back, too focused on marijuana with all the blunts and lowriders. There's nothing honest. There's no trouble in it, you know? There's no hardship in it. Everyone in L.A. that raps has a lowrider and a fat blunt. Back here in New York, we're still walkin' and still smokin' dirt, you know? There's no hardship in their rap, there's nothin' to make you say, ‘I can relate to that."

Yung Joc Featured On Debut Single By Adult Film Star IndiaAdult film actress India is gearing up to make strides in the mainstream with a little help from rapper Yung Joc.

The Block Entertainment artist is featured on "2am," the new single from India's debut Hip-Hop album Role Play.

The Black Widow/ Warner Music Group release represents a new chapter for India, whose love for music prompted her to venture out towards new challenges after appearing in more than 100 adult films.

India, who has appeared in videos for rappers like Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, Ja Rule, Juvenile and others, will celebrate her new album with an invite only listening party on April 21 at the 40/40 Club in New York.

Guests expected for the event include DJ s Green Lantern and Envy as well as comedian Damon Williams and America’s Next Top Model star Jade.

The entertainer will also embark on a promotional tour for the album April 20-24 in NYC, Atlanta, Minneapolis, St Louis and Chicago.

In addition, India will also appear on local and national radio stations such as New York’s Hot 97 FM, Sirius and XM for a series of interviews.

The Grammy winner's scents for both men and women are expected to hit department stores this fall. According to Women's Wear Daily Usher-themed clothing and accessories are also in the works.

Usher will join the already overcrowded market of celebrity designed fragrances including popular scents by Sean John, Jennifer Lopez, Ashanti, Paris Hilton and Derek Jeter.In related news, last week Usher announced his engagement to longtime girlfriend and stylist Tameka Foster.

Musically, Usher recently jumped on the popular "Ice Box" remix by Omarion and confirmed on Ryan Seacrest's radio show that his forthcoming as-yet-untitled CD will definitely feature a collaboration with rapper Jay Z.

BUSTA RHYMES IMPRESSED BY DR. DRE'S VAULTRap mogul DR. DRE is planning for his retirement with a vault full of unreleased magic, according to BUSTA RHYMES.

As the world waits for the reclusive producer's delayed DETOX album - his first release for six years - Rhymes reveals the rapper's biggest problem is deciding which tracks to release from his archive.

Rhymes admits Dre has a "vault" of impressive rap material dating all the way back to his N.W.A. beginnings that will become his legacy.

He says, "Dre got a big safe with a big combination lock. Unbelievable s**t is in that vault - over 20 years of s**t from (late N.W.A. bandmate) EAZY-E and (record label) Death Row days.

"He's created so many things he never put out."

Ne-Yo Brought In As Consultant On New Whitney Houston Album; Wants To Scrap All SongsNe-yo has been called in to relaunch Whitney Houston's career — after branding her new album boring. Ne-Yo was invited by pop guru Clive Davis to give his verdict on eight new Whitney tracks. But Ne-Yo, who wrote Beyonce's hit Irreplaceable and is masterminding Britney Spears comeback, wants to scrap them.He said: "They all had the one same theme, which was ‘My name is Whitney Houston and this is my triumphant comeback'."We all understand she has gone through a lot."I'm sure we all get that but I think she needs songs about regular everyday life. So that's what I'm planning to add to the album — songs about everyday emotions."will.i.am Prepares To Release "Songs About Girls"Even though he's released two albums, 2001's Lost Change and 2003's Must B 21, Will.I.Am considers his upcoming album, Songs About Girls, to be his official debut album. Will told Rolling Stone that the album will be a concept album about a DJ and the women in his life, even though he never really planned to release a solo album."

I never really had an aspiration to do a solo album," Will told Rolling Stone. "I always wanted to be in a group, but I'm going to take advantage of this opportunity to try and reinvent myself."

He's also going to do something that many hip-hop artists aren't doing nowadays – not have any guest appearances. Not even his Black Eyed Peas will make an appearance on the album.

"I don't think I would be doing myself justice if I went in on my solo project and got a whole lot of other people to dilute the concept I have in my head," he says. "I want to make the kind of record that I'm feeling. If people like it, that's cool, but just so I get my nut off."

Evisu’s First North American Flagship Store In NYCThe United States is set to receive it’s first North American Evisu flagship store this summer in New York’s SOHO district.

This new store will give it’s shoppers the ability to acquire products never before available directly to the US public. Much like the Evisu stores in Japan, this new store will provide demonstrations of Evisu’s trademark Gullwing paintings on denim as well as give customers the chance to personalize their own denim.

Although this stores purpose is obviously a retailer first and foremost, it can also be considered an ever evolving gallery of Asian culture as well.

There are plans to do exhibitions promoting various Asian artists with inaugural artist being large scale oil painter Simon Birch of Hong Kong. Concluding the list of interactive features is a proposed screening area to give some customers their first taste of Japanese films.Evisu92 Greene St.New York, NY 10012